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The aim of this topic is to introduce students to the basic concepts and techniques of differential and integral calculus and their application.
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Mathematics HL guide
=1.
Definition of derivative from first principles Link to 1.1. Use of this definition for polynomials only. Link to binomial theorem in 1.3. Both forms of notation, first derivative.
dy and f ( x ) , for the dx
TOK: The nature of mathematics. Does the fact that Leibniz and Newton came across the calculus at similar times support the argument that mathematics exists prior to its discovery? Int: How the Greeks distrust of zero meant that Archimedes work did not lead to calculus. Int: Investigate attempts by Indian mathematicians (5001000 CE) to explain division by zero.
f ( x) = lim
h 0
f ( x + h) f ( x ) . h
Identifying increasing and decreasing functions. Use of both algebra and technology.
TOK: Mathematics and the knower. What does the dispute between Newton and Leibniz tell us about human emotion and mathematical discovery? Appl: Economics HL 1.5 (theory of the firm); Chemistry SL/HL 11.3.4 (graphical techniques); Physics SL/HL 2.1 (kinematics).
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Further guidance
Links
Syllabus content
6.2
Appl: Physics HL 2.4 (uniform circular motion); Physics 12.1 (induced electromotive force (emf)).
Implicit differentiation.
TOK: Mathematics and knowledge claims. Euler was able to make important advances in mathematical analysis before calculus had been put on a solid theoretical foundation by Cauchy and others. However, some work was not possible until after Cauchys work. What does this tell us about the importance of proof and the nature of mathematics? TOK: Mathematics and the real world. The seemingly abstract concept of calculus allows us to create mathematical models that permit human feats, such as getting a man on the Moon. What does this tell us about the links between mathematical models and physical reality?
6.3
Optimization problems.
Testing for the maximum or minimum using the change of sign of the first derivative and using the sign of the second derivative. Use of the terms concave up for f ( x) > 0 , concave down for f ( x) < 0 .
Graphical behaviour of functions, including the relationship between the graphs of At a point of inflexion, f ( x) = 0 and changes f , f and f . sign (concavity change).
Mathematics HL guide
Content
Further guidance
Links
Mathematics HL guide
6.4
Indefinite integral interpreted as a family of curves. Indefinite integral of x n , sin x , cos x and e x . 1 dx ln x + c . = Other indefinite integrals using the results from x 6.2. 5 1 Examples include ( 2 x 1) dx , dx The composites of any of these with a linear 3x + 4 function. 1 and 2 dx . x + 2x + 5
6.5 The value of some definite integrals can only be found using technology.
Definite integrals.
Area of the region enclosed by a curve and the x-axis or y-axis in a given interval; areas of regions enclosed by curves.
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